Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes injured workers of any age to enter into voluntary workers compensation settlement agreements, effective September 1, 2013.

Highlights:

• Authorizes any worker involved in a workers compensation benefits claim to resolve for all non-medical benefits in a lump-sum settlement, whereas existing law only permits long-term structured settlements for workers under 55 years of age (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes the parties to directly submit the voluntary settlement agreement if the worker is represented by an attorney at the time of signing (Sec. 1).

• Requires the parties to submit to a conference with a settlement officer if the worker is not represented by an attorney, who is required to ensure that the worker has an adequate understanding of the voluntary settlement agreement and its consequences (Sec. 1).

• Requires the Department of Labor and Industries to maintain records of all voluntary settlement agreements (Sec. 3).

• Authorizes the employer to provide light duty or transition work to the worker entitled to temporary total disability without first seeking permission from a health care provider (Sec. 5).